Starting your journey into the world of art can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush or sketchpad before. The good news? You don’t need any prior experience to begin—just curiosity, a bit of time online art classes for homeschoolers, and the right guidance. With so many online art classes available, it’s easier than ever to dive into drawing, painting, and other creative skills from the comfort of your home. Here’s how to get started, and some of the best platforms and resources tailored specifically for absolute beginners.
Why Take an Online Art Class?
Whether you’re looking to express yourself creatively, relieve stress, or explore a potential new hobby (or career!), online art classes provide a flexible and affordable way to learn. They allow you to progress at your own pace, revisit lessons as needed, and experiment with different styles and techniques.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
You don’t need fancy materials to begin your art journey. For most beginner classes, all you’ll need is:
- Basic sketching supplies: pencils, erasers, paper
- A simple set of paints (watercolor or acrylic) and brushes
- A device with internet access
- An open mind and willingness to make mistakes and learn
Top Online Platforms for Beginner Art Classes
Here are some great places to begin your artistic adventure:
1. Skillshare
Skillshare is a favorite among creatives and offers a wide range of beginner-friendly courses on drawing, watercolor, illustration, and more. Look for instructors like Brooke Glaser or Gabrielle Brickey who specialize in teaching beginners.
2. Domestika
Domestika offers beautifully produced art courses, often led by professional artists and illustrators. Though many are in Spanish, most come with subtitles. There’s a strong focus on foundational skills and creative exploration.
3. Udemy
Udemy features a broad library of affordable courses, including step-by-step guides on sketching, digital painting, and art theory. You can often find sales that make these courses extremely budget-friendly.
4. YouTube
Completely free and full of inspiration, YouTube has thousands of beginner tutorials. Channels like The Art Sherpa, DrawingWiffWaffles, or Proko break down concepts in a fun and accessible way.
5. Coursera & edX
If you’re looking for a more structured, academic approach, platforms like Coursera or edX offer beginner art courses from universities like MoMA, CalArts, and more. These are great if you want to dive deeper into art theory alongside practical skills.
Tips for Success as a Beginner Artist
- Start simple. Don’t try to master complex techniques from the get-go. Focus on the basics—shapes, shading, color mixing.
- Practice regularly. Consistency is key. Even 15–20 minutes a day can lead to big improvements.
- Be kind to yourself. Everyone starts somewhere, and messy beginnings are part of the process.
- Join an online art community. Many platforms have forums or Facebook groups where you can ask questions, get feedback, and stay motivated.
Final Thoughts
Starting art as an absolute beginner is an exciting step—one that opens the door to creativity, self-discovery, and joy. With the right online class, a little time, and a willingness to play and explore, you’ll be surprised by how quickly you can grow. So pick a class, gather your tools, and let your creative journey begin!
